Classic & Vintage - ?? Miyata 215 ST

I did some searches and didn't find anything specific to a Miyata 215 ST model. Anyone have any opinions or info on it?

There is a 18sp (3x6 drive) touring bike I am going to check out this afternoon. I plan on using it as a commuter or just a general whatever bike. The gentleman selling it isn't terribly bike savy and didn't have much to add on componentry, etc.

27" wheels, lugged steel (not sure if it is hi ten or something better), down tube shifters, etc.

Thanks

If the bike is in good shape, buy it!!! Bossman has one and will swear by this bike.

Miyata were arguably the best of the massed produced bicycles during the 1980s. The 215ST was the bottom model in Miyata'a line-up of Grand Touring bicycles, but in the overall line it would be considered lower, mid-range. It dates from about 1987/1988. Miyata are well designed and manufactured and provided it has not been abused on worm out, should make an excllent commuter.

The frame should be triple butted CrMo with a Mangaloy fork. The tubing was designed and manufactured by Miyata. Major components should include Shimano crankset and Z-series SIS derailleurs, Dia-Compe 983 cantilever brakes and Sanshin hubs laced to Araya 18A rims. Being the lowest model in the GT line, it only has bosses for one water bottle, however it did come with an aluminum rear rack as standard equipment. Advertised weight was 26.8 lb. I don't have the orignal price, but based on similar models, I would guess $325-$350 US.

thanks - the seller does list it as 3butted and with a rear rack. Provided it fits and lis in good shape, I'll buy it.

I have 2 of these bikes - mine and the wife's. Nice riding, solid performers with nice fit and finish. A bit heavy at 27lbs, but I did 8 centuries last year on mine. Very comfortable, stable ride, especially at speed. I had mine up to 56+ mph without so much as a suggestion of problems.

These are "ride all day" bikes without a doubt, and would make fine commuters. The single bottle lug is stupid, but that can be addressed.

Mine cost about $300 new in 1988.

Like T-mar said - 6 speed SIS shifting, triple butted CroMo frame with Mangalite fork, canti's and Araya 36/40 spoke alloy wheels, alloy rear rack.

If it's in good condition, buy it.

Here's mine:
http://img394.imageshack.us/img394/7026/miyata215st2small4rk.jpg

I'll add a +1 to that. I have a 210 (15 speeds) that I just got from Poguemahone. I've only had it out for a short run (too flippin' cold), but I'll be sliding on a compact 6 freewheel and making it my century-mobile.

An eighties Miyata is a wonderful thing.

My own six-ten is now twenty two years old (I bought it new) and it's still a great looking machine with a smooth comfortable ride that you can only get from a quality steel frame.

I have the 1984 Miyata catalogue, the Grand Touring cycles at that time were the 210, the 610 and the 1000.

The six-ten has two bottle fittings, but I have since removed my bottles and I prefer a backpack style water carrier. The bike looks better without bottles :-)

... The bike looks better without bottles :-)

I think you just need a cage & bottle style consultant. My services are available. ;)